Are you changing sides of China? In silence, you keep turning your back on Putin.

China has continued to turn its back on Vladimir Putin, pledging economic support for Ukraine, while praising the people's unity over Russia's attacks, writes the Daily Mail, records Periscope.

Beijing Ambassador to Ukraine Fan Xianng said China will never attack Ukraine, and I will respect the route chosen by the Ukrainian people, in what is being read as Putin's refusal to unite the former Soviet nation with Russia.

Zhao Lijian, spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry, approved Fan's comments Thursday in the most obvious way that Beijing is trying publicly to distance itself from Moscow, which had previously offered strong support.

Asked specifically whether China's support for Ukraine implies refusing to send weapons to Russia, he said: “This is your interpretation”.

“Kina has made repeated statements. There's no reason for you to make these liaisons”, he added.

But Zhao also refused to rule out the opportunity for China to lend aid to Russia, as American intelligence declared the Kremlin has sought aid in military equipment and assistance in overcoming sanctions.

American intelligence also declared this week - prior to a summit between the US and China - that Moscow has reached as far as Beijing for support.

Washington has repeatedly warned of consequences if Beijing tries to help Putin in the war effort. It remains unclear whether any help was sent.